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News Release

Last modified: Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Ready, set, robots: IU summer technology workshop for teens

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2009

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Indiana high school students with an interest in computer technology, programming, or networking can work alongside IU technologists to build a robot and compete against other teams in a "robot showdown" during a hands-on workshop sponsored by the IU Pervasive Technology Institute.

Network security researchers from the Center for Applied Cybersecurity Research (CACR) Advanced Network Management Lab (ANML) will lead the third annual Summer Technology Workshop, which will introduce teens to the field of high-speed network research, cybersecurity, and basic computer programming.

Using kits from the LEGO® Mindstorms® series, workshop participants will work with researchers and other participants to build and control a robot. The program will introduce terms and concepts related to system control, security, and programming.

Participants will learn how those concepts can be applied to the robot for legitimate purposes, and also how an illegitimate user might attempt to program a robot for malicious purposes. Participants will also learn how network security professionals identify, stop, and prevent similar types of malicious activities.

"Our summer workshops are both fun and career focused," said Gregory Travis, assistant director of the ANML. "We show young people how 'playing' with technology will actually teach them fundamental concepts that can lead to a successful future career in growing and emerging fields of technology."

The workshop takes place on Friday, June 19, from 9:30am to 3:30pm, at the Showers Building, 501 N. Morton Street, Bloomington, Indiana. The program is open to Indiana high school students entering their freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior years this fall. There is no cost to register, but space is limited to twelve students. Lunch will be provided.

To register for the conference, please email or call Mary Nell Shiflet at reachptl@indiana.edu or 812-855-9220.

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